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This interesting essay is the work of a Scientific Committee of WFMH consisting of Margaret Mead, Klineberg, Lagache, Line, and Rumke (chairman). The Committee is concerned with the clarification of important concepts in the field of mental health and with stimulating research. They chose the concept of identity because of its relation to many other basic concepts, and defined it as coterminous with personality and individuality. Identity stems from identification. The development of identity and its organization are fully discussed, as well as the concept of empathy. A section headed 'Identity and Group Membership' deals with group loyalties, group prejudice, the role of laughter in human relations, leadership, morality, identity change, and other social aspects. Nationalism is discussed as a phenomenon of identity with the nation. Ethnological aspects are also considered. In fact, the book deals with all facets of the personality concerned with human relations of all kinds and levels. It is not concerned with the biological sources of personality development.
This is a most valuable report of what must have been a highly stimulating discussion. It would be a pity if the esoteric sound of the title should adversely affect the appeal of this unusual booklet, which is of interest for everybody concerned with human behaviour.